KUCHING: Sarawak is pushing to get more autonomy over its healthcare system.
The Deputy Premier Datuk Dr. Sim Kui Hian said that Sarawak had brought up some key points about healthcare autonomy to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) Technical Committee.
But, there’s no final decision yet.
“We need detailed talks to make sure Sarawak fully gets its healthcare rights,” he said.
Dr. Sim said this after launching the new robotic surgical assistant (ROSA) at KPJ Kuching Specialist Hospital today (Sept 4).
He said the current system doesn’t really fit Sarawak due to its unique challenges, like a spread-out population.
“We’re asking for the funds, the power to plan, and control over building and maintaining hospitals and medical equipment. Plus, we want more say in hiring and managing our healthcare staff,” he explained.
He also concerned about some healthcare workers from West Malaysia don’t want to work in Sarawak.
“Once, out of 400 medical officers the Ministry of Health wanted to send here, only half were willing. We need control to address such issues,” Dr. Sim stressed.
